Fans Won’t Be Permitted into NCAA Tournaments Due to COVID-19

The NCAA President Mark Emmert made the announcement in a statement today.

March is here and so is March Madness, it's all basketball, all month.  However this year with the widespread outbreak of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) the NCAA has made the decision to limit event attendance for all basketball championship events, including Division 1 men's and women's tournaments to only essential staff and limited family members.

Here is NCAA President Mark Emmert's official statement on the matter:

The NCAA continues to assess the impact of COVID-19 in consultation with public health officials and our COVID-19 advisory panel. Based on their advice and my discussions with the NCAA Board of Governors, I have made the decision to conduct our upcoming championship events, including the Division I men’s and women’s basketball tournaments, with only essential staff and limited family attendance. While I understand how disappointing this is for all fans of our sports, my decision is based on the current understanding of how COVID-19 is progressing in the United States. This decision is in the best interest of public health, including that of coaches, administrators, fans and, most importantly, our student-athletes. We recognize the opportunity to compete in an NCAA national championship is an experience of a lifetime for the students and their families. Today, we will move forward and conduct championships consistent with the current information and will continue to monitor and make adjustments as needed.

We will keep you updated as we learn more.  It's safe to say this COVID-19 situation is not something to just ignore. Please be vigilant, but don't panic.  Wash your hands, and if you are feeling ill, please don't go in public.